Letter to the Editor: Learning the truth of Islam

As someone who went to Iraq and spent almost a year there. I was so touched to read this story about Ahmed Atieh in the Nov. 24 Chronicle.

I had friends who were Islamic when I was 18, in fact my friend’s father was an Imam. I made a lot of friends in Iraq who were Islamic and I love them dearly. I carry fond memories of playing cards, sitting around telling stories of our lives and partaking of their hospitality.

I made a very good friend there named Rasha. She was married with two small boys. If I saw her around lunchtime she always made me come eat something with her. She didn’t bring much food but she always shared it with me.

At Christmas I bought gifts for her, her husband and children. Through an interpreter I explained to her what Christmas was. She was not at all offended and was pleased that I had included her and her family. My mother sent me a camera for her so she could take pictures of her children. When I left Iraq she gave me and my mother each a beautiful nightgown and headscarf set.

If we all took some time to learn the truth about all religions, there would be a lot less violence in the name of religion. I am so proud of Mr. Atieh for sharing his story with us.